What is periodontal disease?

Non Surgical Gum Treatment

The gums, ligaments, and bone around the teeth form the foundation for  teeth. All structures are also referred to as the periodontium. When the periodontium is not healthy, it jeopardizes the teeth just as a bad foundation would threaten the stability of a house.  Signs of unhealthy periodontium include: gums that are red and bleed easily, persistent bad breath, gums that are pulled away from the tooth, loose teeth, and changes in the position or bite of the teeth.  With proper gum treatments,  it may be possible to return gum tissue to a healthy state.  If you're having a problem, come in and see us so we may treat it right away. The treatment usually involves a deep cleaning or root planing done under a local anesthetic, along with local antibiotic agents.  It is important to have gum problems checked promtly, as gum disease left alone may eventually need treatment through sugery or extraction.

Halitosis

Halitosis is sophisticated word for “bad breath”.  Depending on the cause, bad breath may strike on occasion or be a persistent condition. The most common cause of bad breath is bacteria.  Because the mouth is moist and warm, it creates perfect conditions for the millions of bacteria that live in the mouth.  In fact, approximately 80% of bad breath is caused by something in the mouth.

Some types of bad breath, such as "morning mouth," are considered fairly normal and are not usually health concerns. However, persistent bad breath may be a sign of more serious problems with the gums and teeth.

Bad breath may be caused by the following:

* Poor dental hygiene – poor oral hygiene can leave food particles to decay in the mouth
* Infections in the mouth such as periodontal (gum) disease
* Respiratory-tract infections such as throat infections, sinus infections, lung infections
* External agents including foods such as garlic, onions, and coffee, as well as cigarettes and chewing tobacco
* Dry mouth caused by salivary gland problems or by breathing through the mouth
* Systemic illnesses such as diabetes, liver disease, kidney disease, lung disease, sinus disease, reflux disease and others

Call our office promptly if you have bad breath with painful, swollen gums that bleed easily or loose teeth.  We will perform a physical examination of your mouth to determine the cause.  If we discover that systematic problems are the cause, we may refer you to your family physician.  In severe cases of gum disease, we may recommend a specialized periodontist.